To be ready for an emergency that requires quick evacuation from your home, you should have a Home Emergency Kit containing the following items:

•Flashlight and extra batteries

•Water: A bottle per person

•Lighter

•Food: At least a 72 hour supply of non-perishable food

•Cell Phone (if one is available)

•List of medications you would need for a couple of days

MOST OF ALL REMEMBER IF YOU NEED HELP PLEASE DIAL 911 IMMEDIATELY! DON’T WAIT FOR ANYONE TO COME TO YOU UNLESS YOU HAVE NO OTHER CHOICE. THE WAIT MAY BE VERY LONG AND TOO LATE IF YOU DON’T MAKE THE CALL.

In addition to the items listed above, the Office of Homeland Security makes the following recommendation for every household in the event of a prolonged emergency situation.

1.Emergency Kit of Supplies:

oWater: One gallon per person, per day for drinking and sanitation

oFood: A three-day supply of non-perishable food.

oManual can opener

oBattery-operated radio and extra batteries.

oFirst Aid Kit

oMoist towelettes for sanitation.

oGarbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

oWhistle to signal for help.

oFilter mask or cotton t-shirt to help filter the air.

oPlastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

oWrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

oUnique family needs such as prescription medications, infant formula, diapers, and important family doucments.

2.Make a Plan for what you will do in an Emergency.

3.Remember to check on elderly neighbors.

4.Make a plan for pets and/or livestock.

5.Consider purchasing a generator in case of extended power outages.

6.Be informed about what might happen.

7.Get involved in preparing your community. Find out how by visiting www.ready.gov